Choosing the Right Scan Tool for Your 2007-2020 Honda Fit TPMS System

The Honda Fit, a popular subcompact car, has been equipped with Tire Pressure Monitoring Systems (TPMS) since the late 2000s. Understanding the type of TPMS system in your Honda Fit and having the right scan tool is crucial for maintenance and repair, especially when dealing with tire pressure issues or sensor replacements. This guide will help you navigate the TPMS landscape for Honda Fit models from 2007 to 2020 and choose the appropriate scan tool for your needs.

Understanding Honda Fit TPMS: Direct vs. Indirect Systems

Following the TREAD Act mandate in 2007, requiring TPMS in all vehicles from 2008 onwards, Honda implemented TPMS in the Fit model. Interestingly, the Honda Fit utilizes both direct and indirect TPMS systems depending on the model year.

• Direct TPMS (2008-2014): These models use pressure sensors installed inside each wheel. These sensors directly measure tire pressure and transmit this data to the vehicle’s ECU. If low pressure is detected, a warning light illuminates on the dashboard, sometimes displaying individual tire pressures in high-line systems.

• Indirect TPMS (2014-2020): Later Honda Fit models shifted to indirect TPMS. This system doesn’t use physical sensors in the wheels. Instead, it relies on the Anti-lock Braking System (ABS) to monitor wheel speed. Tire pressure changes affect wheel rotation speed, and the system detects pressure loss by comparing the rotational speed of tires.

Selecting the Correct Scan Tool for Your Honda Fit

The type of TPMS system dictates the type of scan tool required for reset, relearn procedures, and diagnostics. For Honda Fit owners and technicians working on these vehicles, choosing a scan tool compatible with both direct and indirect systems, especially covering the 2007-2020 range (and potentially earlier models for pre-mandate checks), is essential for comprehensive TPMS servicing. While 2007 models might predate the mandate, scan tools designed for 2008+ models are generally suitable for diagnostic checks on similar year vehicles.

Scan Tools for Direct TPMS Honda Fit (2008-2014)

For Honda Fit models with direct TPMS (2008-2014), a TPMS scan tool capable of OBD relearn is necessary when replacing sensors or performing maintenance. Tools like the ATEQ VT56, VT55, VT46, and VT36 are suitable choices. These tools can activate sensors, read sensor IDs, and perform OBD relearn procedures to synchronize new sensor data with the vehicle’s ECU. These tools communicate with the TPMS module via the OBD-II port.

• Frequency: Direct TPMS Honda Fits (2008-2014) operate on a 315 MHz frequency. Ensure your scan tool supports this frequency.
• Relearn Procedure: OBD relearn is required, necessitating a scan tool with OBD module capability.

Scan Tools for Indirect TPMS Honda Fit (2014-2020)

Honda Fit models with indirect TPMS (2014-2020) require a different approach. These systems typically need a TPMS re-calibration rather than a sensor relearn. While you won’t be dealing with sensor IDs or OBD relearns in the same way as direct TPMS, a scan tool can still be beneficial for diagnostics, verifying system functionality, and potentially initiating or confirming the calibration process. Some advanced scan tools may offer features to monitor indirect TPMS systems, although the primary recalibration is often done through the vehicle’s menu.

• Relearn Procedure: Re-calibration of the TPMS system is performed through the vehicle’s onboard computer system, often accessible via steering wheel controls and information displays. OBD relearn and sensor activation are not applicable for indirect TPMS.

Step-by-Step TPMS Relearn Procedures for Honda Fit

Understanding the relearn procedure is crucial for correctly servicing the TPMS on your Honda Fit. The process varies significantly between direct and indirect systems.

Direct TPMS OBD Relearn Procedure (2008-2014)

This procedure requires a TPMS scan tool with an OBD-II module.

1. Preparation: Verify TPMS sensors are correctly installed and inflate tires to the recommended pressure indicated on the tire placard.
2. Sensor Activation: Using your TPMS tool, activate each sensor in the correct sequence. Honda direct TPMS OBD relearn follows a specific counter-clockwise order: Left Front (LF), Left Rear (LR), Right Rear (RR), and Right Front (RF). Place the tool near the valve stem on the tire sidewall.
3. OBD Connection: Connect the OBD module of your scan tool to the vehicle’s DLC (Data Link Connector) port, usually located under the dashboard.
4. Initiate Relearn: Turn the ignition to the “ON” position (engine off).
5. Data Transfer: Follow your scan tool’s prompts to transfer sensor data to the ECU. Typically, you’ll press “OK” or a similar button on the tool.
6. Disconnect and Test: Disconnect the OBD module. Turn the ignition OFF, then start the engine. Drive the vehicle for at least 5 minutes above 28 MPH to allow the system to fully register the new sensor IDs.

Indirect TPMS Re-calibration Procedure (2014-2020)

Indirect TPMS re-calibration is menu-driven and doesn’t require a scan tool for the basic procedure, although a scan tool can verify the system status.

For models with multi-information display:

1. Preparation: Adjust tire pressures to the placard value and release the parking brake.
2. Access Menu: Turn the ignition to “ON”. Use the up/down arrows on your steering wheel to navigate to “Vehicle Settings” or a similar menu option.
3. TPMS Calibration: Press the “SEL/RESET” button until “TPMS Calibration” appears.
4. Calibrate Selection: Press “SEL/RESET” again until “Cancel” and “Calibrate” options are shown.
5. Start Calibration: Select “Calibrate” using the up/down arrows and press “SEL/RESET” to initiate. The calibration process will complete automatically while driving.

For models with information display (TPMS button):

1. Preparation: Ensure tire pressures are correct and release the parking brake.
2. Initiate Calibration: Turn the ignition to “ON”. Push and hold the TPMS button, usually located near the lower left knee bolster, until the TPMS light blinks twice. This indicates calibration has begun. The process will complete automatically while driving.

Troubleshooting TPMS on Honda Fit

• Tip 1: OBD Relearn Sequence: Remember the unique counter-clockwise sensor activation sequence (LF, LR, RR, RF) for direct TPMS OBD relearn on Honda Fit.
• Tip 2: MIL Flashing: For 2008-2012 direct TPMS Honda systems, the TPMS Malfunction Indicator Light (MIL) may flash after sensor ID registration. This is normal and will stop after driving for a short distance (1-10 miles) as the vehicle learns the sensor IDs.
• Tip 3: Relearn vs. Re-calibration: Understand the difference. Direct TPMS (2008-2014) requires a relearn when sensors are replaced. Indirect TPMS (2014-2020) requires re-calibration after pressure adjustments, tire rotation, or tire/sensor replacement (though sensors are not directly involved in indirect systems).

Accessing TPMS DTC Codes with a Scan Tool

For diagnosing TPMS issues, a scan tool like the VT56 can retrieve Diagnostic Trouble Codes (DTCs). Select the “Service” or “Diagnostics” icon on your tool, then choose Honda, Fit, and the vehicle year. Navigate to the DTC code section. Using an OBD-II connection, the scan tool will retrieve Honda-specific TPMS DTCs, aiding in pinpointing problems within the system.

Conclusion

Choosing the correct scan tool and understanding the TPMS system type in your Honda Fit is essential for effective maintenance and repair. Whether you are dealing with a direct TPMS system requiring sensor relearns or an indirect system needing re-calibration, having the right tools and knowledge will ensure accurate TPMS servicing and vehicle safety. Investing in a capable scan tool will empower you to confidently handle TPMS issues on your 2007-2020 Honda Fit and similar models.